Articles tagged with Disease Control
Researchers detect four cryptic variants of SARS-CoV-2 in NYC wastewater samples, suggesting possible animal origins. The variants' mutations could help identify the next variant of concern for COVID-19.
Research shows that mask mandates are effective in reducing COVID-19 transmission in rural US counties with lower population density. The study found a 16.9% reduction in cases after mask mandates were introduced.
A 22-year study in Tanzania found that children who slept under bed nets at an early age had a 40% higher survival rate compared to those who didn't. The study tracked over 6,700 children and provided unique insights into the long-term benefits of malaria control in young children.
The Purdue Research Foundation Office of Technology Commercialization has awarded more than $143,000 to three projects led by researchers in the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Veterinary Medicine. Guri Johal is developing a corn variant that could impact worldwide corn production with Trask funds supporting his project on clon...
The opioid crisis in the US has reached epidemic levels, with over 100,000 drug overdose deaths reported for the first time. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention attributes the rise to abuse of synthetic opioid fentanyl and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Researchers have discovered that a small protein called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) couples the body's control of blood sugar and blood pressure. This finding could lead to new treatment strategies for patients with hypertension and/or diabetes.
A trial found that parents bought fewer sugary drinks when products displayed pictorial warnings about type 2 diabetes or heart damage. Pictorial warnings are being explored as a strategy to reduce children's intake of sugary drinks and related health outcomes.
A new genomics study has helped guide the development of vaccines against Shigella, a leading cause of severe diarrhoea in children. The research revealed the extent of genomic diversity among Shigella species, highlighting challenges to current vaccine approaches.
Researchers at UC Riverside have identified a new host protein interaction in chickens that triggers a strong immune response against viral infections. The discovery sheds light on the differences between bird and human immune responses to zoonotic viruses.
A new meta-analysis of available literature on ALS disease has identified a group of seven environmental chemicals as correlates with increased risk of developing ALS. Exposure to these chemicals, including BMAA and heavy metals, may be contributing to the disease burden in certain regions.
Researchers at TTUHSC developed novel hydrophilic nanoparticles that target bacterial membranes, killing pathogens while sparing mammalian cells. The nanoantibiotics' size-dependent activity reveals a new blueprint for developing non-toxic and environmentally friendly antibiotics.
A study of over 800 hospitals found that people experiencing incarceration or homelessness had increased COVID-19 hospitalization rates and longer hospital stays compared to the general population. This highlights the vulnerable status of these groups during the pandemic.
A new study from USC researchers sheds light on COVID-19 vaccine inequities in California, revealing disparities in vaccination rates among vulnerable populations. The study suggests that targeted community outreach and improved vaccine access can help reduce these disparities.
Researchers found that male mosquitoes beat their wings up to 500-1,000 times a second, changing frequency to produce 'distortion tones' more audible to the male ear. This change is partly due to their circadian clock and allows males to detect females in swarms.
Researchers at Waseda University discovered a new protein isoform called Senp5S, which helps regulate Drp1 and mitochondrial dynamics during brain development. The study suggests a novel and vital role for post-translational SUMOylation in neuronal differentiation.
A state-wide Massachusetts infection control program, implemented in 360 nursing homes, reduced COVID-19 infections among vulnerable residents, including those with dementia. Cohorting residents and proper adherence to infection control guidelines were key factors in this reduction.
A study published in PNAS reveals that dengue-infected mosquitoes are more attracted to mammals and bite more often, increasing disease transmission chances. The research found that infected mosquitoes have difficulty locating blood vessels for feeding, leading to increased biting attempts and transmission events.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have developed a new method for analyzing pyroptosis, a process of cell death previously thought to be irreversible. By using optogenetic gasdermin, they found that certain conditions can trigger pores to close within tens of seconds, suggesting the process dynamically self-regulates.
Researchers have found COVID-19 infection in white-tailed deer in six northeast Ohio locations, suggesting the virus may be spreading among wildlife. The study's findings indicate that infected deer can potentially harbor new strains of SARS-CoV-2, complicating human mitigation and control plans.
Scientists have discovered a novel way to combine two species of grass-like plants using embryonic tissue from their seeds, offering disease resistance and stress tolerance. The breakthrough technique allows for the addition of beneficial traits to monocotyledonous crops without genetic modification or lengthy breeding programmes.
Research reveals a lag of 5-10 years between reduced fungicide use and decrease in fungicide-resistant pathogens. The study's findings provide insights into the impact of fungicide resistance on global distributions of pathogens.
The CDC found flaws in the assay design and contamination of one component, leading to false positive reactivity in negative controls. A redesign and improved quality control measures have since been implemented.
Researchers found that in 2020, 93% of Guinea worms detected worldwide were in dogs in Chad. Dogs eating infected fish carry the parasite larvae, which means they maintain the life-cycle and humans can still catch the disease.
A new study from the University of Georgia found that overweight youth are developing signs of artery stiffness, a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Researchers measured visceral fat levels and arterial stiffness in over 600 children, adolescents, and young adults, revealing higher levels of visceral fat and arterial ...
A new NIH-funded study aims to test a program using a pharmacist-community health worker team to help patients with high blood pressure stay on track with their medication. The intervention addresses barriers to adherence, such as low health literacy and limited transportation access, through culturally relevant education and support.
A Phase 2 clinical trial showed sotorasib can shrink tumors and achieve disease control in heavily pretreated patients with advanced colorectal cancer. The study results exceeded the historic benefits linked to approved therapies, offering new hope for a population with limited treatment options.
A study published in CMAJ found that hospital health care workers in Quebec had high seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies after the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The highest rates were reported in hospitals with outbreaks, particularly those from older facilities.
A new study found that Omicron's immune-evading capabilities are significant, but some vaccinated and previously infected individuals have 'stronger' protection. However, the protection from Omicron may be compromised over time.
A new study links the composition of gut microbiome before infection to HIV susceptibility and progression. Men who contracted HIV in the early days of the pandemic had a greater relative abundance of pro-inflammatory vs. anti-inflammatory gut microbes, which contributed to their increased risk of developing AIDS.
The Liberty Asthma VOYAGE trial found that dupilumab significantly reduced the rate of severe exacerbations by nearly 60% and improved lung function and asthma control in children ages 6 to 11. Dupilumab was also shown to be safe, with minimal adverse reactions.
Researchers at USC developed a new peptide that stimulates the host's immune response to fight bacterial infections, offering an alternative to antibiotics. The peptide, MTD12813, is highly effective in clearing infections and modulates inflammation, reducing the risk of complications.
Researchers created a disease map of genes involved in eye disorders, shedding light on how individual cells respond to external factors like injury. The study paves the way for regenerative medicine and cell replacement therapies for eye diseases.
Researchers have discovered that certain microbes can prevent Clostridioides difficile infection by consuming nutrients essential for its growth. This new understanding challenges existing approaches to probiotic treatment options, which focus on restoring secondary bile acids.
The study found that indoor bars, private parties, and nightclubs were high-risk places for transmitting the Delta variant, with men being more susceptible. Previous infection conferred a 95% protective effect, while two doses of mRNA vaccines provided 67% protection against symptomatic infection.
Researchers from Trinity College Dublin investigate the epidemiology and population biology of Enteroccocus faecium, a high-priority pathogen. They found that Irish isolates have evolved independently and are diverse, with a unique genetic transposon element encoding vancomycin resistance.
Researchers have discovered that certain strains of Aspergillus can be used to degrade aflatoxins in crops, reducing the risk of food contamination. This biological control method utilizing biocontrol products is currently the most effective way to produce safe and healthy foods and feeds.
A systematic literature review found HIV seroprevalence in five key populations: men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID), prisoners, sex workers, and transgender people. The review identified significant gaps in data, particularly for transgender individuals.
A recent study estimates that COVID-19 vaccination prevented almost 470,000 deaths among people aged 60 years and older across Europe. The authors found that early implementation of vaccination was associated with the largest reduction in expected deaths.
A team of University of Pennsylvania biologists used citizen science data to create a comprehensive abundance map of the black-legged tick, responsible for transmitting Lyme disease. By correcting biases in the data, they were able to increase its value and provide insights into tick distribution across the Northeast US.
Researchers at University of Technology Sydney identified microRNA-21 as a potential therapeutic target for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Inhibition of microRNA-21 using antagomir-21 reduced inflammation and improved lung capacity in experimental models.
A real-world study of BBV152 found that two doses resulted in 50% effectiveness against symptomatic COVID-19 in hospital workers. The study's findings support the importance of a second dose for maximum protection, but highlight limitations in estimating vaccine effectiveness against severe outcomes.
A study by Weill Cornell Medicine investigators found that antibodies secreted in the gut help control pathogenic forms of gut fungi like Candida albicans. However, patients with Crohn's disease often have impaired antibody function, leading to an overgrowth of harmful fungi.
Researchers at UConn Health have discovered that eliminating senescent cells in human fat tissue can alleviate signs of diabetes and improve insulin sensitivity. The study suggests that clearing away these dysfunctional cells could lead to game-changing new treatments for Type 2 diabetes.
UC San Diego researchers developed a computer model to understand how viruses travel through the air, shedding new light on airborne COVID-19 transmission. The model simulates aerosol behavior and helps explain why SARS-CoV-2 is highly transmissible through the air.
A University of South Florida Health-led team discovered a lead candidate that selectively relaxes airway smooth muscle cells with no detectable drug desensitization. The biased beta-agonist, C1-S, offers a therapeutic option for asthma and obstructive lung diseases without the rapid loss of effectiveness seen with traditional β-agonists.
A recent study has identified 18 species of the fungus associated with olive tree anthracnose, including the most widespread in Spain, Greece, Tunisia, Portugal, and California. The research found significant differences in virulence among species and geographic regions, paving the way for more effective control methods.
Scientists at the University of Nottingham found a plant-based antiviral treatment to be effective in blocking the highly infectious SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant. The novel natural antiviral drug, thapsigargin, was shown to trigger a broad-spectrum host-centred antiviral innate immune response against all variants of the virus.
The CDC's four-tiered vaccine prioritization strategy outperformed most approaches in reducing deaths and cases, while some optimizations could improve outcomes. The study found that prioritizing healthcare workers and individuals under 16 was optimal, but strategies focusing on comorbidities were also effective.
Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem discover a 'disrupted' state in bacteria that resists current antibiotics, requiring new pharmacological agents to combat. The breakthrough model predicts bacterial population responses to treatments, offering avenues for better treatments against cancer cells.
Researchers developed EDS-HAT, an AI-powered system combining machine learning and whole genome sequencing to detect clusters of similar infections in real-time. The system identified 99 clusters of infections and prevented potential transmissions in 65.7% of cases, saving the hospital $692,500.
A new study has identified the CCR2 gene as a key player in the progression of type 1 diabetes. The research found that lower blood levels of CCL-2, a ligand for CCR2, were associated with increased immune cell recruitment to the pancreas, leading to islet cell destruction.
Researchers found that CD4+ T lymphocytes — immune system cells — produced by people who received COVID-19 vaccines persisted at high levels six months after vaccination, with a significant response against the delta variant. The study also showed that vaccine-elicited fighters recognize and help attack coronavirus delta variant.
A large study published in Nature Communications has identified a protein in the blood, follistatin, which can predict type 2 diabetes up to 19 years before diagnosis. The study found that higher levels of follistatin circulating in the blood are associated with an increased risk of developing the disease.
Two leading US physicians urge doctors to screen patients for exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution, recommending interventions to limit exposure and improve cardiovascular health. Governments also have a primary responsibility to adopt technologies and regulations that reduce air pollution.
An updated vaccination strategy is credited with averting an outbreak of urban yellow fever in São Paulo State, according to research published in Scientific Reports. The study found that the virus spread rapidly, reaching cities never affected before, and that a high number of cases were reported in areas with low vaccination coverage.
Researchers identified two distinct clusters of patients with Prurigo nodularis: those with increased inflammation and those with a higher likelihood of spinal disease. This study suggests that personalized treatment approaches can be tailored to specific patient profiles.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy screening significantly reduces colorectal cancer incidence and mortality, with a substantial protective effect maintained up to 19 years. The study's findings confirm the safety and effectiveness of flexible sigmoidoscopy as a preventive measure.
A new study found that UK citizens experienced drastic changes in their daily routines during lockdowns, with parents of young children spending significantly more time on housework and childcare. This led to a reduction in paid work time for most people, with women with young children being particularly affected.
Leaders of high-containment labs argue for a nuanced approach to regulation, drawing from existing practices and considering human and financial costs. They advocate for organizational leaders to take responsibility for lab safety and security, reducing the need for government-level oversight.
Researchers used machine learning and genomics to identify molecular markers of resistance to sugarcane yellow leaf disease in over 97 sugarcane genotypes. The study found that energy cane varieties with higher fiber content are more resistant to the disease, paving the way for commercial launches.